FEARS over Old Firm clash in Glasgow as CCTV operators strike

A STRIKE by CCTV operators during the upcoming powder-keg Old Firm football game will put the public at serious risk, it has been claimed.

It is feared a strike during the Old Firm football game could put public safety at risk

The Community Safety Glasgow (CSG) employees have already staged two 48-hour stoppages in a pay dispute.

And from last night they are due to strike every weekend, prompting fears that, if the conflict is not resolved, the workers will be unavailable on Sunday, April 17 - when Celtic take on Rangers at Hampden Park in the Scottish Cup semi-finals.

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Concerns have been raised over the possible risks the strike would pose to public safety.

The problem about the absence of CCTV over the weekend is a substantial one

Labour MSP Graeme Pearson

Labour MSP Graeme Pearson, a former Strathclyde Police deputy chief constable, said CCTV plays a major role in policing major football games.

He added: "The problem about the absence of CCTV over the weekend is a substantial one.

"It is important that the authorities come to some arrangement that ensures the coverage is maintained, whether that is with a settlement with the operators or by some other means.

"Certainly, over the Old Firm game period, the CCTV will be very important in managing a safe environment."

Mr Pearson continued: "The work done by the people who monitor CCTV is immense and very important to the city.

"The management of the cameras, to make sure they are pointing in the right directions and so forth, that takes some professional expertise - it's not just anybody who can do that work.

"Done properly, that can save a lot of trouble, and a lot of violence.

"It is really disappointing that Community Safety Glasgow management can't obtain a settlement with this group."

CCTV staff keep an eye on more than 400 cameras across the city and flag up any trouble to police.

The 19 striking workers are calling for better pay for working shifts, which they say other council and CSG staff receive.

They have already staged two walkouts, but are yet to reach agreement with management. A Community Safety Glasgow spokesman said: "Public safety is paramount and we have business continuity plans in place to enable us to continue to monitor the city's CCTV network."

Last night, a Police Scotland spokeswoman said extra officers would be deployed with mobile CCTV units to ensure public safety.

She added: "Appropriate policing patrols have been put in place to ensure the safety of the public and support officers within the catchment area during this time."